What is a PA? A Comprehensive Guide

The healthcare sector is vast and filled with numerous professionals, each playing a critical role in patient care. Among these essential roles is the Physician Assistant (PA), a position that has gained prominence and importance over the years. This post aims to shed light on the PA profession—covering what PAs do, the path to becoming one, their scope of practice, common PA jobs, career outlook, and salary expectations. Whether you're a student contemplating a career in healthcare, a family member curious about the profession, or a medical professional seeking to understand the role of PAs better, this post is for you.

This post written by Natalie Michelle MPAS, PA-C

What is a Physician Assistant?

A Physician Assistant (PA) is a medical professional who practices medicine on teams with physicians, surgeons, and other healthcare workers. PAs are trained to take medical histories, conduct physical exams, order and interpret diagnostic tests, diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries, prescribe medications and may even serve as a patient's principal healthcare provider. They also can perform certain procedures independently as well as serve as first- assist during complex surgical cases. With thousands of hours of medical training, PAs are versatile and can work in various healthcare settings, from hospitals and clinics to private practices.

PA Education and Certification Process

To become a PA, one must complete a rigorous educational program, which includes classroom instruction and clinical rotations. The education of a PA involves completing a master's degree in physician assistant studies. These programs usually take two to three years to complete, and they cover subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical medicine. Students also participate in clinical rotations, where they gain hands-on experience working with patients in various healthcare settings, such as emergency departments, clinics, and operating rooms.

After completing a PA program, graduates must take and pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE), which is administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). This exam is a comprehensive test of the knowledge and skills that PAs need to practice medicine. Once a PA has passed the PANCE, they are certified by the NCCPA and can legally practice medicine as a physician assistant.

PA Scope of Practice

PAs work in a variety of medical specialties, such as family medicine, emergency medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and psychiatry. While the daily duties and scope of practice for PAs can vary significantly by state and the setting in which they work, they always work in collaboration with a licensed supervising physician. The collaboration between PAs and physicians is based on trust and mutual respect, with PAs often working semi-independently, always under a physician's oversight.

PA Career Outlook and Salary

The demand for PAs is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by an aging population and a global push towards more accessible healthcare services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of PAs is projected to grow 31 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Salaries for PAs are competitive, reflecting their high level of training and the critical role they play in healthcare. Median annual wages can vary widely depending on the specialty, geographical location, and years of experience. However, the median annual wage for physician assistants was $115,390 as of May 2020, with the top earners in the profession bringing in significantly more, especially in high-demand specialties and areas

What makes an effective PA? 

Effective PAs are knowledgeable, compassionate, and able to communicate effectively with patients and healthcare providers. They have excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills and are able to work well under pressure. Effective PAs also have a strong work ethic and a commitment to providing high-quality patient care.

Conclusion

Physician Assistants are a vital part of the healthcare team, offering flexibility and expertise that support both patient care and the broader healthcare system. The path to becoming a PA is rigorous, demanding both extensive education and dedication to lifelong learning. However, for those who choose this career, the rewards are substantial—not only in terms of salary and job security but also in the profound satisfaction of making a significant difference in patients' lives.

Whether you're considering a career as a PA, seeking to understand the role better, or simply exploring the healthcare field, it's clear that Physician Assistants play a crucial and rewarding role in delivering high-quality healthcare